Cat Island, The Bahamas

Where is Cat Island?

Cat Island is located in the central Bahamas. If you’re looking at a map, its coordinates are 24°25′N 75°31′W. Cat Island is unique in many ways and not your typical tourist destination. It makes a wonderful day trip if you’re looking to go off the beaten path. Or, extend your stay to soak up the peace and quiet of this treasure. The largest towns are Arthur’s Town, which is the capital settlement, New Bight, Orange Creek, and Port Howe. There are airports in Arthur’s Town and New Bight.

When you arrive, your first reaction will be to the island’s beauty. Soon, however, you’ll notice what’s “missing.” Nothing, actually, except the commercialism typically associated with tourism. This is an island of solitude for peaceful respites from the hustle and bustle. If you crave quiet beauty, visit Cat Island. With 50 miles of gentle hills, countless nature trails, and the world-famous eight-mile Pink Sand Beach, your batteries will be recharged in no time.

What is Cat Island, Bahamas known for, and, are there cats on Cat Island?

You must be wondering about the name of this tropical paradise. No, the island is not shaped like a cat. Nor are there thousands of cats roaming the island. Although there is no consensus, many believe it was named for a pirate, Arthur Catt. Others remember stories of feral cats roaming the island years ago. Regardless of how it got its name, Cat Island is a special place as all who have visited can attest. Fun fact? Sidney Poitier, Academy award-winning actor, was born in Arthur’s Town. You surely know of his performances in such classics as Lilies of the Field, In the Heat of the Night, and Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, to name just a few. Sir Sidney Poitier’s boyhood home no longer stands, but its former location is marked for visitors to see.

What should I see and do?

The beaches are breathtaking, but this is the Bahamas, after all, so what else would you expect? Still, you can expect to see hundreds of beautiful pink conch shells scattered on the pink sandy beaches. An absolute must-see attraction stands at the top of Mount Alvernia, also known as Como Hill. At 206 feet above sea level, this is the highest point in all of the Bahamas. The best views are from this point and like no other, but the views are only one reason to journey to the top. Here you’ll discover the Mount Alvernia Hermitage, which was built by a Catholic priest, Monsignor John Hawes.

Known as “Father Jerome” to the parishioners, Hawes, an Englishman, had first trained as an architect before entering the priesthood. The medieval monastery he built on the summit of Mt. Alvernia is stunning and can be accessed by road or a rocky climb if you feel adventurous. Of all the sights to see on Cat Island, this will reward you for your efforts. You’ll enjoy a moment of quiet reflection and an opportunity to take some beautiful pictures to remember this magical place.

Historical Sites

After you visit the Hermitage, check out the ruins of the Armbrister Plantation located on the southern base of Mount Alvernia. This historic site takes you back to the mid-1700s. The Great House was built by Scotsman Henry Hawkins Armbrister sometime between 1755 and the mid-1700s. The mansion is the second-oldest standing structure in The Bahamas. In the early 1800s, enslaved Africans revolted and burned the mansion. However, enough of the structure remains to conjure quite an effect. The exterior walls are standing, as are the doorways, which frame the breathtaking view that was once enjoyed by Armbrister himself. Access is not the easiest, since the terrain is bushy and hilly, but for those who are mobile it offers a bit of time travel to the 1700s.

If you visit in June, you can enjoy the island’s Annual Rake & Scrape Festival. Islanders make unique music using recycled items such as wood, fishing line, washtubs, and rakes. Grab a goatskin drum and add to the beat! This is island life at its most soulful. 

Where can I stay on Cat Island?

There are several great spots to stay on Cat Island, including motels and resorts that cater to all travelers. These offer many amenities, including wi-fi and concierge services. Taxis? No problem. Need a local tour guide? Just ask! Most resorts offer fishing, diving, boating, and other water sports excursions. You’ll also find excellent restaurants on site featuring Bahamian cuisine and even a taste of the nightlife. If you’d like to plan a picnic, they can even help you find the closest grocery store for supplies. Many brides-to-be plan their destination wedding at these resorts. Likewise, many grooms plan their fishing trips to coincide. The weather is perfect year-round, so why not plan a trip now? Check out these great accommodations on Cat Island:

• The Bridge Inn – New Bight
• Fernandez Bay Village – New Bight
• Hawk’s Nest Resort – New Bight
• Rollezz Villa Beach Resort – Old Bight
• Fountain Bay Resort & Marina – The Bight
• Sammy T’s Beach Resort – Bennett’s Harbour
• Tail Winds Resort – Orange Creek
• Orange Creek Inn – Orange Creek
• Shannas Cove Resort – Orange Creek
• Lake View Motel – Port Howe
• Greenwood Beach Resort – Port Howe
• Pigeon Cay Beach Club – Roker’s
• Ocean Dream Beach Resort – Smith’s Bay

How do I get to Cat Island?

That part’s easy! Epic Airways can take you on an airplane charter directly to Cat Island. We offer flights to all the best spots in The Bahamas. If you’re from out of state, you can fly into Sanford Airport, which is just 34 miles from Epic. Or, you can fly into Orlando International Airport, just 65 miles away. Once you arrive at the private FBO, you’ll feel like you’re already on vacation. Your charter flight to Cat Island will be safe, affordable, fast, and comfortable. Make sure your phone is charged. You’ll be posting pictures to social media from takeoff to touchdown!

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